Long-Term Antidepressant Use Under Scrutiny: New Clinical Overview Questions Efficacy Beyond 12 Months
A clinical overview published in the Australian Journal of General Practice has found insufficient evidence to support long-term antidepressant use beyond 12 months. Researchers argue that many studies may be misclassifying withdrawal symptoms as a relapse, potentially exaggerating the drugs’ relapse prevention properties.
Researchers from Adelaide University and the University of Queensland have recommended that doctors conduct regular reviews of antidepressant prescriptions and engage in shared decision-making with patients about whether to continue or stop treatment.
The Scope of the Issue
- Nearly four million Australians took antidepressants in 2024–25.
- General practitioners prescribe 92% of all antidepressants in Australia.
The overview also highlighted a range of adverse effects associated with long-term use, including sexual dysfunction, emotional numbing, cognitive impairment, weight gain, and increased physical health risks in older adults.
Expert Statements
"Long-term use is not recommended for most people yet is common; patients often struggle to stop due to withdrawal symptoms, and the chemical imbalance theory lacks evidence."
— Co-author Professor Katharine Wallis (University of Queensland)
"Studies do not distinguish withdrawal from relapse. Updated guidelines are needed, as no good studies show long-term effectiveness."
— Co-author Mark Horowitz (University of Adelaide)
Supporting Resources for Deprescribing
The article highlighted resources approved by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) designed to support the process of reducing or stopping antidepressants. These include:
- The RELEASE toolkit
- Various tapering schedules
These tools aim to assist clinicians in safely managing deprescribing, ensuring that patients who wish to stop taking antidepressants can do so with appropriate support.